The announcement of the extension of the Crowborough Camp to 2030 has been announced.
I am deeply disappointed and not surprised the impact on Uckfield, nearby villages, and wider Sussex Cadets and their training facilities is unclear as well as the long-term costs.
Meanwhile I also asked in the Chamber about the closure plan for the Copthorne Hotel, where it is in the process as the planning runs out as we Conservatives have led a motion on not extending this at MSDC and we need answers.
I’ve secured an urgent meeting with the Minister on this which I welcome.
The impact on our hospitality sector long term in Copthorne as well on safety and community cohesion is vital to tackle for the village. Residents remain frustrated and concerned about ongoing reported incidents of illegal working and what this facility back in community use. We need answers on both issues, and I am determined to get them.
Meanwhile, I spoke in the chamber on behalf of my party on the very sensitive topic of the Draft Conversion Practices Bill.
Gender-related distress is complex and requires careful, sensitive and the attention of all MPs - I was very disappointed to see not a single Reform MP in the Chamber to join, listen, or contribute to this discussion. This Bill was brought to us in the same week where Labour voted to give puberty blockers to children as young as 11 years old.
What are we doing when it comes to invasion of young lives and how we support children and parents through any childhood issues?
We must be honest about the risk of unintended consequences for families and parents. Parents, teachers, clinicians and therapists must be able to support, guide and, where appropriate, challenge. That is not harm; that is safeguarding. We firmly stand against abuse and coercion.
Conservative Members believe in pragmatic evidence-based policymaking and in strong safeguards. We must ensure this Labour Government are seeking to prevent harm, and they do not create any new harm. More here: https://www.mimsdavies.org.uk/news/mims-davies-mp-contributes-draft-conversion-practices-bill-chamber
Meanwhile, children as young as 11 could again be given puberty blockers under a new trial being considered by the Labour Government.
These strong drugs can have life-changing and long-term consequences, including significant risks to fertility, bone density, and sexual development.
Conservatives strongly believe in your happiness in what every way you believe - That love is love and you should make age appropriate choices within the law – Meaning you can live happily as your true-self. However, under 18s do always need our protection and support.
We all go through changes as a child and young adult. We need our youngsters to have the time and space they need - before they end up in processes they simply can’t go back on.
Adults in the trans community need all our understanding and deserve protections and support. Many of us know and care for people in the trans community who we want to be happy and fulfilled as adults.
Reform didn’t turn up again; the Lib Dem’s back this process but didn’t have the honesty to all vote for it and one actually voted against...
Conservatives are united in giving kids their childhood - with time to mature, find their way, then make their long-term choices as adults.
